A single dose of a seasonal flu shot has changed a cheerleader’s life forever. Ten days after receiving the shot, Desiree Jennings, 25, came down with a painful debilitating neurological disorder.
Prior to getting the flu shot in August, Desiree’s health was good. However, 10 days afterward she contracted flu-like symptoms. Matters only got worse from there, and she was put in the hospital for seizures on two occasions before being diagnosed with a condition known as Dystonia. Medical experts only speculated that the flu shot was the cause.
Walking is agonizing for Jennings whose muscle cramps means she twists and jerks before collapsing. When standing still or sitting she is overwhelmed by incapacitating muscle spasms which stop her walking or talking properly. However, the symptoms disappear when she runs or walks backwards.
“It’s been unreal. I didn’t think anyone would even care about my story. People are sitting there crying and I can’t understand why.” Jennings said. “This has ruined my life … running is all I have left now.”
With the advent of the new H1N1 vaccine, a large number of people are questioning both the seasonal and H1N1 vaccines. Still, the Center for control of disease and prevention, getting a flu vaccination is the single best way to help prevent influenza.